MANILA, Philippines — State prosecutors have recommended the filing of terrorism and frustrated murder charges against 15 individuals, including a sitting local chief executive, in connection with the January ambush of Shariff Aguak Mayor Datu Akmad “Mitra” Ampatuan.
The decision stems from complaints filed by Mayor Akmad alongside Private First Class Manuel Donduego, Tips Lakman Eso, and Butch Saludin. Named as key respondents in the case are Asrap Maidatu Pendatun and Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan V of Maguindanao del Sur.
Andal V is the son of Andal Ampatuan Jr., who was previously convicted for his role in the 2009 Maguindanao massacre that claimed 58 lives.
According to a 72-page resolution issued by the National Prosecution Service under the Office of the Secretary of Justice, prosecutors formally approved the filing of criminal informations in court against the respondents.
Also named as co-accused in the resolution are Danny Mamalak Pendatun, Puasa Yasilon Aminon, Ababang Salik, Edad Pendatun, Aboher Guiambangan, Toraipie Lusod, Gapor Magaluyan, Mohammad Shamron Uday Sapalon, Samsudin Mokamad, Saudi Guiapal, Johari Guiapal, Soy Kali, and Datuben Gayon.
Beyond frustrated murder, the prosecution panel recommended charging the accused with conspiracy to commit terrorism, planning and facilitating terrorism, and committing acts of terrorism under Republic Act No. 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. The original complaint also leveled allegations of attempted murder, malicious mischief, and violations of Republic Act No. 9516 regarding illegal explosive possession.
Following the findings, Judge Alberto Pantonial Quinto of the Regional Trial Court Branch 1 in Iligan City issued arrest warrants for the 15 accused, denying bail for their alleged roles in plotting the January 25 attack.
The ambush occurred when a gunman fired a rocket-propelled grenade at Mayor Akmad’s convoy, an act captured on nearby surveillance footage.
While the mayor escaped unhurt due to his armored vehicle, two security aides sustained injuries, and three suspected attackers were killed in a subsequent police chase.